FRANCE-AMÉRIQUE

Over the Rainbow

9 July 2017 - 28 August 2017. Praz-DelaVallade Gallery. Los Angeles

Over the Rainbow, an exhibition curated by René-Julien Praz, will feature the work of 29 artists in light of LGBTQ human rights, including writer/filmmaker Jean Cocteau, novelist/playwright Jean Genet, writer/photographer Hervé Guibert, actor Jean-Luc Verna and photographer Robert Mapplethorpe.

Today, we are a transformative stage in the struggle towards the true equality of LGBTQ people. Hatred, discrimination, persecution, and legal barriers are still prevalent — and in many places violence and murder are a daily reality for millions. Change is underway and it is often artists that occupy this cutting edge. In the US, where homophobia has been commonplace since its inception, gay rights activism has fanned the fires of a political climate where courageous politicians, both men and women, have been able to initiate the necessary cultural shift that has led to serious socio-political change. These are important steps, but it is important not to give up — the fight continues now more than ever. As change comes to fruition, artists like these are the watchmen with an ability and determination to confront society and, through this exhibition, pay tribute to those who defend human rights for all people.

Praz-Delavallade is a contemporary art gallery based in Paris and Los Angeles. It was founded by René-Julien Praz, who curated this exhibition, and Bruno Delavallade.